Information on the Poodle Skirt
Fashions of the 1950s are arguably still as popular today as they were in their time. Vintage clothing boutiques regularly stock full pleated and circle skirts of the era, not the least of which is the pretty, preppy poodle skirt.
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History
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In the 1950s, post-WWII women's fashion changed dramatically thanks to mass marketing, new fabrics and a general freer sense of life. The rise of film, television, rock 'n' roll and magazine culture affected younger generations of women, specifically: The term "teenagers" was coined during the decade, and because many teenagers had jobs, they became viable consumers. Teenage fashions of the day emerged, including greaser, beatnik and preppy looks. Poodle skirts were a key trend in the last.
Features
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Poodle skirts were full circle skirts typically made of felt; a poodle-shaped applique (sometimes with a curled leash) were affixed to one side. Full skirts were the mode of the 1950s; women wore crinolines or petticoats underneath to maximize the skirts' fullness. Usually, teenage girls paired poodle skirts with bobby socks, saddle shoes, a blouse and cardigan and a hair scarf.
Effects
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The popularity of the poodle skirt, along with other 1950s teenager clothing, marked a distinct change in marketing and production that still exists today. Clothing for different generations--especially younger generations--has been prevalent ever since. And the poodle skirt look itself is so iconic, it serves as a traditional 1950s costume for the twenty-first-century woman.
Considerations
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It's important to note that the poodle skirt was unacceptable for women above teen age years, though the shape of the skirt was popular for women of all ages.
Fun Fact
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Poodle skirt appliques were not limited to poodles (usually of the French variety); other appliques included telephones, various animals and foods.
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